Tag: The Tasting Notes Bookclub

Summer Fever by Kate Riordan

by Bookworm&TheatreMouse

The June book pick for The Book Taster’s ‘The Tasting Notes Bookclub’ was ‘Summer Fever’ by Kate Riordan. And, what a perfectly titled book for the current heatwave (the name of Kate Riordan’s first book) many of us are suffering/enjoying, depending on your point of view.

All the summer fever occurs in Italy for this book and I adored all the sense of scene that was created through the writing, as Italy is one of my favourite places in the world, and it certainly felt like you were there. I was not disappointed at the descriptions of the area, food and drink – as they are some of my favourite things. And I am sure we have all had a bit of a fantasy of getting away from it all and finding some adventure in a beautiful villa.

However, this does not become quite the adventure or new start that Nick and Laura are expecting, even if the villa’s name, Luna Rossa, sounds perfectly idyllic. Their attempt to establish a guesthouse for those also looking for a chance to get away, in fact, highlights the cracks in their marriage – especially when their first guests arrive, who may not be quite as much strangers as you may expect. Will this become a summer that everyone wants to forget?

I think that some of this story was not a surprise in points, and it followed the expected tropes of its genre. But, if you are looking for something to read by the pool, in the sunshine, with a glass of wine or your favourite summer beverage, it could be the book for you.

The Lucky Escape by Laura Jane Williams

by Bookworm&TheatreMouse

What a perfect summer read – I mean, I know you should not judge a book by its cover, but this book cover certainly says ‘perfect summer read’. In fact, you should be reading this somewhere hot and sunny – or, failing that create your own summer escape. (Which the wonderful Book Taster helped us do this month with all our lovely goodies).

Anyway, back to the book. This book was a great read for the summer break. Annie’s wedding is called off – as she arrives at the church. For some, this could be the end of everything but, for Annie, it becomes a whole new adventure, because she takes her honeymoon anyway – with another man. On her Australian adventure, she takes the chance to re-evaluate life, and realise maybe it was all a lucky escape – and should she be following another path?

This is a light-hearted read with a big message. Maybe we do need to remember sometimes that we do not have to follow the path that society makes us feel we have to – I mean, afterall, one size does not fit all. But, also, you do not have to stick to the plans you have made.

I just found this book an enjoyable read and almost like a little holiday.

Looking forward to hearing all the book clubbers share their thoughts – and if they all want to rush off to Australia too?